I love hiking in the snow especially in the early morning. The light is glorious as the rising sun changes the color of the sky. Glittering crystals of white paint the landscape transforming the HSNP picnic area into a fantasy world.

When it snows I like to get out early in the morning to catch the beautiful Valley of the Vapors light. The past 2 months both the morning and evening skies have been glorious. Add snow, wind and storm clouds Hot Springs National Park will always put on a show.

As I reached the mountain top to look out over the valley storm clouds loomed overhead. As the wind picked up the clouds began to move creating a beautiful sky show. Soon rays of light stream toward the earth delicately lighting the valley and surrounding Ouachita Mountains.

On the 6th Anniversary of my Hike Our Planet Blog it seems appropriate there would be a Violet blooming in the 2016 late afternoon winter sun. In 2010 a little Wildflower caught my attention after a snow melt. It had survived the icy blanket and was both strong and delicate in its struggle to survive. It was me. I had been sleepwalking for many years and suddenly felt an awakening. Hiking and photography removed the veil. I could see the wonder of the Universe through the eyes of my childhood.

Find your passion and remember the wonder of seeing as a child.

Love to ALL!
Lee

PS: I later discovered it was called a Bird-Foot Violet (Viola pedata) aka Bird’s Foot Violet, Birds-foot violet, Crow Foot Violet. They have been my favorites and a sign that my Mother is always with me (Violets were her favorite flower).

PPS: Special Thanks to my Beloved Husband Rick for being a supportive friend, husband and hiking partner.